Gamification Team’s Trip to Thoughtworks: Crossing the First Milestone
Space International has been deeply engaged in a year-long modernization process, partnering with ThoughtWorks to enhance our digital banking application. The overarching objective of this modernization initiative is to instill progressive methodologies in our work culture and refine our technological framework. The ultimate aim is to render our product more flexible, apt for broader markets, and easily adaptable to future changes.
This comprehensive modernization has ushered in a transformative period, offering an intriguing, challenging, and distinctive opportunity for each member of our cross-functional teams. The changes have sparked more ideas, creating an environment where quick feedback and a range of creative input are encouraged.
As a gamification team, we dedicated several months to this modernization endeavor. The culmination of our efforts approached with the significant “thin slices release.” To mark this crucial juncture, a visit to India materialized, presenting a strategic opportunity to collaborate with those whom we had been diligently working alongside remotely. This crucial moment, when our work was about to be shown to the public, gave us the amazing chance to meet our online friends in person.While the collaboration has been successful since the first day of remote communication, this visit is expected to further enhance our future collaboration. Being in the same offline space should facilitate even greater success in our ongoing partnership.
The challenges associated with the public release were mitigated significantly by the physical presence of our team during this crucial period. The shared experiences, emotions, and triumphs strengthened the collective bond among all of us.
Observing ThoughtWorks from an insider’s perspective provided intriguing insights into their organizational culture. Notably, we discovered alignment in certain values, while recognizing areas where we could learn from each other. A central inquiry during our collaborative efforts revolved around the mechanisms enabling such uniformity in working methods and shared values within the company.
Mariam, our product owner, shared a profound reflection: “One of the main insights was their feedback-sharing approaches. People have a great reaction and readiness to share or request feedback, which helps them improve themselves at every step.”
Beyond the professional landscape, our interactions with the ThoughtWorks team extended into the realm of cultural exchange. The months of virtual collaboration facilitated a sense of familiarity, yet meeting in person provided a nuanced understanding of a distinct culture. Despite the differences, we discovered shared values, particularly in the warm hospitality we experienced, reflective of our own Georgian traditions.
During our visit to Goa, we transitioned from the corporate setting to the tropical paradise. The unique experience of indulging in exquisite sea produce and immersing ourselves in a culture divergent from our own was a rare opportunity, enriching our perspectives in ways seldom encountered in professional life.
After our Goa adventure, we spontaneously decided to experience the Taj Mahal at night, adding an unexpected twist to our journey. This led to a magical sunrise encounter, etching another memorable chapter in our collective narrative.
Some team members experienced their first business trip, turning it into a special journey for all of us. Our collaboration with ThoughtWorks not only boosted technology but also formed a strong bond beyond distances, based on shared values and victories. Cheers to ongoing successful collaborations and the lasting impact of this remarkable journey!
